Calls mount for San Antonio to rename César E. Chávez Boulevard
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San Antonians are calling for city leaders to rename César E. Chávez Boulevard, a downtown thoroughfare, following new allegations that Chávez sexually abused women and girls.
Why it matters: Chávez's name can be found on streets, schools and public spaces across the U.S.
- The swift moves by some local governments to reconsider those public tributes show how communities are grappling with the legacy of one of the most iconic figures in Latino civil rights.
The latest: District 5 Councilmember Teri Castillo submitted a memo to city manager Erik Walsh Wednesday asking for a series of community listening sessions this spring to help identify a potential new name for César E. Chávez Boulevard.
- Castillo also wants input on the future of the city's César Chávez Day designation. San Antonio added César Chávez Day as a city holiday in 2022.
- She's proposing a survey for residents and businesses along the boulevard.
What they're saying: "We are committed to creating a transparent and inclusive process where residents can share their perspectives and help determine a path forward that reflects our community's values," Castillo said in a statement.
- The city is reviewing Castillo's request, city spokesperson Mia Garza-White tells Axios.
- She added that Walsh will work with the City Council to figure out the right process and timing for any potential change.
Plus: District 2 Councilmember Jalen McKee-Rodriguez will hold community discussions about the street name separately, spokesperson Imgard Khosravi tells Axios.
State of play: Others have chimed in on social media.
- "Join me in demanding all Cesar Chavez streets in Bexar County be renamed to honor Dolores Huerta," State Rep. Josey Garcia (D-San Antonio) wrote, referring to the civil rights leader who said Wednesday that Chávez had forced her to have sex with him.
- San Antonio Poet Laureate Eddie Vega wrote: "Change them all to Dolores Huerta Dr. They should've been named that all along."
What's next: "The city is committed to an approach that will keep the community informed (and) allow for public input as the discussion moves forward," Garza-White says.